How to save electricity at home with the aircon and fans
The aircon is usually one of the biggest users of electricity at home, so start there. The National Environment Agency (NEA) suggests setting it at 25 degrees C and says a lower setting means the aircon uses more energy. For questions about temperature, filters and sleep mode, see our guide to aircon settings that save electricity.
Is a fan cheaper to run than the aircon?
Usually, yes. NEA lists using a fan instead of the aircon as a way to keep cool and save energy. If you prefer the aircon, NEA suggests running it for a short while, about 1 hour, and then switching to a fan. To compare running costs, see our aircon or fan cost comparison.
Does the aircon timer help?
Yes. NEA suggests setting the aircon timer to switch the unit off half an hour earlier than usual. The aircon then runs for less time without you having to remember to switch it off. You can combine this with NEA's other tip of running the aircon for a while and then switching to a fan.
What does the aircon's tick rating mean?
It tells you how energy efficient the model is. NEA's Energy Label rates efficiency in ticks: 1 tick is Low, 2 is Fair, 3 is Good, 4 is Very Good and 5 is Excellent. A model with more ticks is rated as more efficient, so compare ticks when you choose between aircons.
Water heaters and standby power
Next, look at the water heater and at appliances that stay plugged in when nobody is using them.
When should I switch on a storage heater?
About 10 to 30 minutes before you shower. NEA says that is enough, and that a storage heater keeps using energy for as long as it is switched on. Switch it off when you do not need hot water. Choosing a new heater? Use our water heater buying checklist.
Do appliances use power when switched off?
Many do. NEA says many appliances still draw power after being switched off, so turn them off at the socket. It also suggests switching off modems, set-top boxes and game consoles when you are not using them. Keep on only what needs to stay on, such as the fridge.
Do curtains help?
Yes. NEA lists closing curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day as an energy saving tip, along with using solar window film. It needs no new appliance and no change to your aircon settings, so it is an easy habit to add.
Labels and buying
When an appliance needs replacing, the Energy Label helps you compare models. If your aircon is old, read whether to repair or replace an old aircon before you buy a new one.
The Climate Friendly Households Programme (CFHP) lists eligible products, including 5-tick air-conditioners, 3-tick-and-above refrigerators, 5-tick water heaters, 4-tick washing machines, DC fans, 2-tick-and-above LED lights and induction stoves.
Which appliances carry the Energy Label?
Air-conditioners, refrigerators, clothes dryers, televisions and water heaters. NEA's Energy Label covers these appliances, and consumers must only buy NEA-registered models. Before you buy, check that the model is registered and compare the number of ticks with the other models you are considering.
Is the label's yearly cost my real cost?
Not exactly. NEA explains that the yearly energy consumption and cost shown on the label are worked out under fixed assumptions, and that your actual consumption and cost may vary. Treat the figure as a way to compare models side by side rather than as a forecast of your own bill.
Checking your usage
Your bill shows how many kWh you used. If a bill looks higher than usual, see what to check when your electricity bill is high.
How do I know if my usage is high?
Compare your kWh with homes like yours. The Energy Market Authority (EMA) publishes average monthly household electricity consumption by household type and planning area in its annual Singapore Energy Statistics (SES). Our guide to average electricity usage has more on this, and the electricity cost calculator lets you try your own numbers.
Does changing retailer cut my usage?
No. A different retailer can change the price you pay for each kWh, but not the number of kWh you use. That depends on your appliances and how you use them. To compare retailer plans with buying from SP, see our open electricity market comparison.
NEXT STEP
See electrical companies in the directory with their published prices, the areas they say they cover and their sources.
Compare electriciansWhere to go next
- Electricians: compare electrical companies, their published prices and the areas they say they cover.
- NEA energy saving tips: NEA's household tips for the aircon, water heater and standby power.
- NEA's Energy Label: which appliances carry the label and how the ticks work.
- CFHP eligible products: the products listed under the programme.
- EMA household consumption FAQ: where EMA points you for household electricity statistics.
Questions
Does switching off at the wall save electricity?
Yes, for appliances that draw standby power. NEA says many appliances still draw power after being switched off, and suggests turning them off at the socket. Leave on anything that must keep running, such as the fridge, and only touch a switch or socket when your hands and the floor are dry.
Is an inverter aircon cheaper to run?
You cannot tell from the word "inverter" alone, so compare the ticks on the Energy Label instead. NEA's Energy Label rates air-conditioners from 1 tick (Low) to 5 ticks (Excellent), and a model with more ticks is rated as more efficient. Check that the model is NEA-registered too.
Do LED lights save much electricity?
Some, but the bigger savings are usually in how you use the aircon, the water heater and appliances that run all day. When bulbs need replacing, the Climate Friendly Households Programme lists LED lights with 2 ticks and above among its eligible products, so check the ticks before you buy.
Should I switch off the fridge when going on holiday?
Usually not, if food stays inside. The fridge has to stay on to keep that food cold and safe to eat. Follow the maker's manual for what to do on a longer trip, especially if you plan to empty the fridge and switch it off.
Does a fridge use more power when it is full?
Not simply because it is full. Keep the door closed as much as you can, and do not pack food so tightly that cold air cannot move around the shelves. Check the maker's manual for how to load your model, and compare the ticks on the Energy Label when you replace a fridge.
Is it cheaper to run the washing machine at night?
Only if your retailer plan has cheaper off-peak rates. On a plan with the same rate all day, a load uses the same kWh and costs the same whenever you run it. Check your plan's rates with your retailer before you change your routine.
Practical guidance for planning a home job in Singapore. Company prices come from the HomezyPro directory, each linked to its source; rules and safety points link to the agency or manufacturer that sets them. This is not a site inspection, a quote or professional advice for your home.
How HomezyPro worksYOUR NEXT STEP
Find the right team for your home.
Compare services, published prices and sourced reviews. Contact the company directly to confirm your job and availability.
Explore electrician companies